US6493501B2 - Optical fiber interconnection closures - Google Patents

Abstract

A converting assembly and method for creating an in-line closure from a first end cap and a first support frame of a butt-type closure includes a second support frame and a second end cap. An elongate housing defines an internal cavity, a front opening at the front end of the housing, and a rear opening at the rear end of the housing. The front and rear openings are contemporaneously respectively occluded by the first and second end caps while the first end cap is connected to the front end of the first support frame and the second end cap is connected to the rear end of the second support frame. The front end of the second support frame is connected to the rear end of the first support frame so that the first and second support frames are enclosed within the internal cavity defined by the housing.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 09/438,737 filed Nov. 11, 1999, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/379,939 filed Aug. 24, 1999 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,292,614 and entitled Movable Bracket for Holding Internal Components of an Optical Fiber Interconnection Closure During Servicing and Associated Method.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to optical fiber interconnection closures and, more particularly, to internal structures of optical fiber interconnection closures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Fiber optic networks typically include interconnection closures at various splice locations throughout the fiber optic network. Typically, these interconnection closures include splice closures and patch closures. For example, splice closures commonly house the splices connecting the optical fibers of one or more distribution cables to respective ones of the optical fibers of a fiber optic feeder cable. By housing the splices, a splice closure protects the spliced end portions of the optical fibers from environmental degradation, strain, and other deleterious forces, thereby increasing the reliability and quality of the splices.

As known to those of ordinary skill in the art, a variety of splice closures have been designed. For example, a typical butt-type splice closure includes a housing open at one end and a single end cap positioned within the open end of the housing. Each of the fiber optic cables associated with the butt-type splice closure extends through the single end cap. As an additional example, a typical in-line splice closure includes a housing open at both of its opposite ends and a pair of end caps respectively positioned within the open ends of the housing so fiber optic cables can enter the in-line splice closure from either end of the housing.

Conventional splice closures of the above-described types generally include a frame that is connected to the end cap(s) and carries a number of splice trays that are disposed in a stacked arrangement within the housing. Each splice tray generally includes a series of splice holders for receiving the spliced end portions of a pair of optical fibers.

As optical fibers continue to be used in greater numbers, the demand increases for splice closures that can carry and provide access to large numbers of fiber optic cables, optical fibers, and optical fiber splices. Whereas some conventional splice closures can be characterized as sufficiently carrying and providing access to large numbers of fiber optic cables, optical fibers, and optical fiber splices, there is always a demand for new splice closure structures that enhance the capability for optimally carrying and providing access to large numbers of fiber optic cables, optical fibers, and optical fiber splices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides splice closures and components of splice closures that enhance the capability for optimally carrying and providing access to large numbers of fiber optic cables, optical fibers, and optical fiber splices.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a closure for receiving at least one fiber optic cable and for containing optical fibers and optical fiber splices is provided. The closure includes an elongate housing having front and rear ends. The housing extends in a longitudinal direction extending between the front and rear ends. The housing defines an internal cavity extending in the longitudinal direction, and at least one opening to the internal cavity. An end cap occludes the opening of the housing. The end cap defines ports through which fiber optic cables extend. The end cap includes a periphery extending around the ports. A support frame is connected to the end cap, extends in the longitudinal direction, and is positioned in the internal cavity of the housing. The support frame includes an elongate support member having opposite front and rear ends. The support member extends in the longitudinal direction, the front end of the support member is oriented toward the front end of the housing, and the rear end of the support member is oriented toward the rear end of the housing. The support frame further includes upper and lower front extensions. Each of the front extensions is connected to the support member proximate to the front end of the support member. The front extensions extend away from the support member and diverge with respect to one another. The upper front extension is connected to the end cap at an upper position proximate to the periphery of the end cap. The lower front extension is connected to the end cap at a lower position proximate to the periphery of the end cap and distant from the upper position. A plurality of container-like devices for containing optical fibers are carried by the support member. At least two of the container-like devices are positioned on opposite sides of the support member from one another. Therefore, one of the two container-like devices can be accessed without accessing the other of the two container-like devices.

In accordance with one example of the present invention, each of the two container-like devices carried on opposite sides of the support member are slack baskets for containing at least some of the optical fibers. In accordance with another example of the present invention, one of the two container-like devices carried on opposite sides of the support member is a splice tray, and the other of the two container-like devices is a slack basket. In accordance with another example of the present invention, each of the two container-like devices carried on opposite sides of the support member are splice trays. In accordance with yet another example of the present invention, one of the two container-like devices carried on opposite sides of the support member is a slack basket, and the other of the two container-like devices is an organizer assembly. The organizer assembly includes a plurality of spaced apart partitions defining a plurality of receptacles for respectively receiving splice trays.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, an elongate channel and an elongate opening to the channel extend along the back side of an organizer assembly carried by the support member. A bottom side of the organizer assembly is oriented toward the support member, and the back side is adjacent to the bottom side and opposite from the tray-receiving openings to the receptacles of the organizer assembly. The channel is designed to receive and at least partially enclose a section of optical fibers extending between a first position proximate the end cap and a second position proximate the rear end of the organizer assembly. Therefore, the channel advantageously facilitates the routing of optical fibers within the closure.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a transition plate is mounted to the top of an organizer assembly carried by the support member. The transition plate includes a surface and a plurality of protrusions protruding angularly away from the surface. Each protrusion defines an aperture for receiving a tie that holds at least some of the optical fibers. For example, at least one of the protrusions can be an arch, a tab, or the like. The transition plate advantageously facilitates the routing of optical fibers within the closure.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, an adjustment bracket is mounted in movable relation to the support member. The adjustment bracket is movable toward and away from an organizer assembly carried by the support member. The adjustment bracket is operative to abut the splice trays received by the receptacles of the organizer. The adjustment bracket at least partially secures splice trays within the closure. Further, the adjustment bracket can accommodate splice trays of different sizes.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the front extensions of the support frame cooperate to define a generally U-like shape. More specifically, the support member portion of the support frame defines a member axis extending between the front and rear ends of the support member. Each of the front extensions extend both generally radially away from proximate the member axis and longitudinally away from proximate the front end of the support member.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, one or multiple flanges protrude from the front extensions. Strain relief brackets are mounted to respective flanges and receive fiber optic cables. The flanges are arranged so the strain relief brackets are optimally placed proximate the cable-receiving ports of the end cap.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the support frame further includes upper and lower rear extensions. Each of the rear extensions is connected to the support frame proximate to the rear end of the support member. The rear extensions extend away from rear end of the support member, the rear extensions diverge with respect to one another, and the rear extensions extend toward the front end of the support member. Buffer tubes abut the rear extensions, and the rear extensions function to at least partially restrict movement of the buffer tubes, so the buffer tubes are maintained in an organized arrangement.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, two bars are joined together to provide the support frame and the support member can be characterized as a composite support member. The front ends of the bars are the front extensions of the support frame. More specifically, the front ends of the bars diverge from one another, in the longitudinal direction, and forwardly away from the front end of composite support member. The rear ends of the bars are the rear extensions of the support frame. More specifically, the rear ends of the bars diverge from one another and forwardly away from the rear end of the composite support member.

Whereas numerous butt-type closures are within the scope of the present invention, numerous in-line type closures are also within the scope of the present invention. For example, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the above-described rear extensions can be characterized as a first pair of rear extensions, and a second pair of rear extensions are connected to the first pair of rear extensions and extend rearward from the first pair of rear extensions. Further, a secondary end cap is connected to the second pair of rear extensions.

Accordingly, the present invention advantageously provides splice closures and components of splice closures that enhance the capability for optimally carrying and providing access to large numbers of fiber optic cables, optical fibers, and optical fiber splices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a partially exploded, partially schematic, perspective view of a butt-type splice closure for containing optical fiber splices in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a partially schematic, isolated side elevation view of a butt-type support frame of the closure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a partially schematic, isolated perspective view of the butt-type support frame of the closure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an end cap and a portion of the butt-type support frame of the closure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the end cap and a portion of the butt-type support frame of the closure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a partially schematic, side elevation view of the end cap, a portion of the butt-type support frame, and other components of the closure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of support frames and end caps of an in-line splice closure, in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is an isolated perspective view of a secondary support frame of the in-line splice closure of the second embodiment;

FIG. 9 is an isolated perspective view of a butt-type support assembly of a butt-type splice closure, in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is an isolated perspective view of a butt-type support frame of the butt-type support assembly of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a partially schematic, top plan view of portions of the butt-type support assembly of FIG. 9 with bundles of buffer tubes, in accordance with one example of the third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a partially schematic, top plan view of portions of an in-line support assembly of a splice closure with bundles of buffer tubes, in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is an isolated perspective view of a secondary support frame of the in-line support assembly of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an isolated perspective view of portions of a butt-type support assembly of a butt-type splice closure, in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an in-line support assembly of an in-line splice closure, in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

The present invention provides splice closures and components thereof that enhance the capability for optimally carrying and providing access to large numbers of fiber optic cables, optical fibers, and optical fiber splices.

First Embodiment

Referring now to FIG. 1, an optical fiber interconnection closure in the form of a butt-type splice closure20 is illustrated in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated,closure20 includes ahousing22 defining aninternal cavity24 and anopening26 to the cavity. Whereashousing22 can have a variety of shapes, the illustrated housing has a generally cylindrical shape. In accordance with the first embodiment, opening26 is positioned at afront end28 ofhousing22, and the oppositerear end30 of the housing is closed.Housing22 extends in a longitudinal direction extending between the front andrear ends28,30. The wall ofhousing22 extends around and defines ahousing axis31 extending between the front andrear ends28,30. The cavity,24 receives and thehousing22 carries a butt-type support assembly33.Support assembly33 holdsfiber optic cables32.Buffer tubes34 containing optical fibers (not shown) generally extend from end portions of thefiber optic cables32.Support assembly33 supportsbuffer tubes34 and splices (not shown) that connect the optical fibers. The buffer tubes can contain individual optical fibers or optical fiber ribbons.

More specifically,support assembly33 includes anend cap38 and a butt-type support frame36 connected to and extending rearward fromend cap38. In accordance with the first embodiment,support frame36 is carried byend cap38 in a cantilever-like fashion.Support assembly33 is movable between an enclosed configuration and an unenclosed configuration.End cap38 is positioned in theopening26 of thehousing22 during the enclosed configuration.Support frame36 and the components carried thereby are positioned withincavity24 ofhousing22 during the enclosed configuration. In contrast,end cap38 is removed from opening26 to provide the unenclosed configuration. Likewise,support frame36 and the components carried thereby are removed from thecavity24 during the unenclosed configuration.

Although theend cap38 can be secured to thehousing22 in a variety of different manners,closure20 includes a splitannular collar40 that securely engages a circumferential flange42 ofhousing22 and acircumferential flange44 ofend cap38 to secure the end cap to the housing. Thecollar40 andcircumferential flanges42,44 cooperate with an O-ring46 that is received in acircumferential channel48 defined byend cap38. As a result, and assuming all other openings tocavity24 are sealed,housing22 is substantially watertight while the closure is in the enclosed configuration.

As best seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, thesupport frame36 has afront end50 and an oppositerear end52.Support frame36 defines aframe axis54 extending between the front andrear ends50,52, is coaxial with thehousing axis31 when in the enclosed configuration. See FIG.1.

As best seen in FIG. 2,support frame36 is constructed from anupper bar56 and alower bar58.Upper bar56 includes a forwardupper extension60, and the forward end of the forward upper extension is connected to an upper portion of end cap38 (FIG.1). Likewise,lower bar58 includes a forwardlower extension62 connected to a lower portion ofend cap38. More specifically, an upper attachment hole64 (FIG. 3) is defined through forwardupper extension60. Abolt61, or the like, passes throughupper attachment hole64 to attach forwardupper extension60 to endcap38. Likewise, a lower attachment hole66 (FIG. 3) is defined through forwardlower extension62. A bolt (not shown), or the like, passes throughlower attachment hole66 to attach forwardlower extension62 to endcap38. As shown in FIG. 1,end cap38 has a generally cylindrical peripheral or circumferential surface, andforward extensions60,62 are mounted to the end cap proximate to opposite sides of the circumferential surface.

Referring to FIG. 2, forward upper andlower extensions60,62 extend rearward from end cap38 (FIG.1). Thereafter, they extend in a converging manner so that the upper andlower bars56,58 converge. Elongate sections of upper andlower bars56,58 extend contiguously to provide acomposite support member67.Composite support member67 extends rearward of the convergence between the upper andlower bars56,58. The contiguous sections of thebars56,58 are joined to one another, such as through the use of welding techniques, or the like. Thecomposite support member67 defines a member axis that is coaxial with theframe axis54. In accordance with the first embodiment, thecomposite support member67 is centered with respect to theforward extensions60,62.

More specifically, the forward upper andlower extensions60,62 each include apart68,72, respectively, extending generally radially away from theframe axis54. The forward upper andlower extensions60,62 further include longitudinally extendingparts70,74, respectively, extending generally in the longitudinal direction. An angle of approximately 180 degrees is defined between theradially extending part68 of the forwardupper extension60 and theradially extending part72 of the forwardlower extension62.

As best seen in FIG. 3, forwardupper extension60 includes a pair of laterally extending and spaced apartright flanges76, as well as laterally extending and spaced apart leftflanges78. Likewise, the forwardlower extension62 includesflanges80 andflanges82.

Upper bar56 includes an upperrear extension90 and thelower bar58 includes a lowerrear extension92. Therear extensions90,92 extend away fromcomposite support member67, in a divergent manner with respect to one another, and towardfront end50 ofsupport frame36. As best seen in FIG. 2, each of therear extensions90,92 includes a part extending. perpendicularly with respect to thecomposite support member67, and another part extending acutely with respect to the composite support member.

Whereas it is preferred for thesupport frame36 to be constructed from the twodistinct bars56,58, it is within the scope of the present invention for the support frame to be a unitary or one-piece component. For example, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, thesupport frame36 is constructed using casting techniques, or the like, so the support frame is a unitary or one-piece component.

A pair of spaced apartupper studs84 are connected to and extend upward from the upper surface ofsupport member67. Likewise, a pair of spaced apartlower studs86 are connected to and extend downward from the lower surface ofsupport member67.Studs84,86 are preferably threaded and each has a respective wing nut, or a quick connecting and disconnecting item, or the like, removably fastened thereto. As shown, a pair ofwing nuts88 are respectively threaded onto the pair ofupper studs84.

As best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5,end cap38 definesmultiple ports94 that extend through the end cap for respectively receivingfiber optic cables32.Ports94 are open at therear side96 ofend cap38. However, covers100 removably cover some ofports94 so that some of theports94 are open at thefront side98 of theend cap38.Fiber optic cables32 extend throughrespective ports94 of theend cap38. Whereas only two of theports94 are illustrated as being occupied byfiber optic cables32 in FIG. 1, each of theports94 may receive a respective fiber optic cable or a respective portion of a fiber optic cable.

As best understood with reference to FIG. 1, for eachfiber optic cable32 it is preferred for ahose clamp118, or the like, to extend around the fiber optic cable and attach the fiber optic cable to a strain-relief bracket. For example, a right strain-relief bracket114 is connected to flanges80 (FIG. 3) of forwardlower extension62, and likewise a left strain-relief bracket115 is connected to flanges82 (FIG.3). Whereas only two strain-relief brackets114,115 are illustrated in FIG. 1, each of the pairs offlanges76,78,80,82 (FIG. 3) may receive a strain-relief bracket. Further, other strain-relief brackets can be received by channels102 (FIG. 5) defined by therear side96 of theend cap38 to strain relief cables passing throughcenter ports94.

As best seen in FIG. 6, strain-relief bracket114 is positioned upon the inward-oriented surfaces of the pair of right flanges80 (also see FIG. 3) of the forwardlower extension62. Ascrew116, or the like, extends through the gap defined between the pair ofright flanges80 and into an aperture (not shown) defined in the strain-relief bracket114 to secure the strain-relief bracket to the forwardlower extension62. Thefiber optic cable32 can be pulled throughend cap38 beyondflanges80 to allow an operator to attachhose clamp118 andbracket114 tocable32.Cable32 is then pulled back throughend cap38 andbracket114 is attached toflanges80 withscrew116. This allows the operator sufficient room to work on thecable32.

Referring to FIG. 1,buffer tubes34 typically extend from thefiber optic cables32. Excess portions of thebuffer tubes34 are stored inslack baskets120 that are adjacent to splicetrays122.Slack baskets120 and splicetrays122 can be characterized as container-like devices for containing buffer tubes. The container-like devices are carried by thesupport member67, and at least two of the container-like devices are positioned on opposite sides of the support member from one another. Therefore, one of the two container-like devices can be conveniently accessed without accessing the other of the two container-like devices.

Eachslack basket120 includes a tray-like base124 andtabs126 extending away from the tray-like base at an acute angle to define a region for containingbuffer tubes34. Eachsplice tray122 includes a tray-like base, a splice organizer (not shown) mounted to the tray-like base and defining a plurality of parallel grooves for respectively receiving the optical fiber splices, and a removable cover to cover and protect the splice organizer. Within eachsplice tray122, ends of the optical fibers extending from thebuffer tubes34 are spliced together.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, an upper group of thesplice trays122 and theupper slack basket120 are connected to the upper side of thesupport member67. Likewise, a lower group of thesplice trays122 and the lowerslack basket120 are attached to the lower side of thesupport member67. Each of thesplice trays122 and theslack baskets120 defines a pair of apertures that receive the respective pair ofstuds84 or86 (FIGS. 2 and 3) extending from the opposite sides of thesupport member67, and those respective studs receive wing nuts (such as the wing nuts88), or the like, to secure the splice trays and/or slack baskets to the support member. In addition, an elongate fastener, which is preferably astrap128, is wrapped around theslack baskets120 and splicetrays122 to assist in the securing of the slack baskets and the splice trays to thesupport member67. The ends of thestrap128 preferably include pieces of attachment material, such as that sold under the trademark VELCRO, clasps, or other connecting mechanisms for allowing thestrap128 to securely retain the fiber buffer tubes in theslack baskets120 and thesplice trays122. Therear extensions90,92 also play a role in optimally containing thebuffer tubes34, as is illustrated in FIG.1.

In an alternative embodiment, the upper andlower bars56,58 are vertically spaced apart from one another along substantially all of the length of thesupport member67, but that vertical space is less than the vertical space between thelongitudinally extending parts70,74 (FIGS. 2 and 3) of the forward upper andlower extensions60,62. In accordance with this alternative embodiment, excess portions ofbuffer tubes34 are coiled and placed in the space defined between the upper andlower bars56,58 along thesupport member67.

Second Embodiment

An in-line splice closure of a second embodiment of the present invention is identical to the butt-type splice closure20 (FIG. 1) of the first embodiment of the present invention, except for variations noted herein. The housing (not shown, but see thehousing22 of FIG. 1) of the in-line splice closure of the second embodiment defines openings at both the front and rear ends thereof. The in-line splice closure of the second embodiment includes an in-line support assembly that is movable between an enclosed configuration and an unenclosed configuration with respect to the housing of the closure of the second embodiment. More specifically, the housing of the second embodiment is longitudinally split along at least one side, the housing enclosing the in-line support assembly to provide the enclosed configuration, and the housing can be opened and removed from the assembly to provide the unenclosed configuration.

FIG. 7 illustrates portions of the in-line support assembly of the in-line splice closure of the second embodiment. The in-line support assembly of the second embodiment includes the butt-type support assembly33 (FIG. 1) of the first embodiment. As described above, the butt-type support assembly33 includes the end cap38 (also see FIGS.1 and4-6) and the butt-type support frame36 (also see FIGS.1-6). In accordance with the second embodiment, the butt-type support assembly33 is mounted to asecondary support assembly142.Secondary support assembly142 includes asecondary support frame144 mounted to the butt-type support frame36.Secondary support assembly142 further includes asecondary end cap146.Secondary end cap146 is generally identical to theend cap38 of the butt-type support frame33.

Secondary support frame144 can be characterized as being two secondary rear extensions. More specifically, as oriented in FIG. 7, the upper portion of thesecondary support frame144 can be a secondaryupper extension148, and the lower portion of the secondary support frame can be characterized as a secondarylower extension150.Secondary extensions148,150 are connected to thesecondary end cap146 in the same general manner in which theforward extensions60,62 are connected to theend cap38. Referring to FIG. 8, anupper attachment hole152 is defined through secondaryupper extension148. A bolt (not shown), or the like, passes throughupper attachment hole152 to attach the secondaryupper extension148 to the secondary end cap146 (FIG.7). Likewise, alower attachment hole154 is defined through the secondarylower extension150. A bolt (not shown), or the like, passes through thelower attachment hole154 to attach the secondarylower extension150 to thesecondary end cap146. As best shown in FIG. 7, thesecondary end cap146 has a generally cylindrical peripheral or circumferential surface, and thesecondary extensions148,150 are mounted to the secondary end cap proximate to opposite sides of the circumferential surface of the secondary end cap.

As shown in FIG. 7, the secondaryupper extension148 includes aradially extending part156 extending generally radially away from the frame axis54 (also see FIGS. 2 and 3) and alongitudinally extending part158.Radially extending part156 of the secondaryupper extension148 defines a forward upper attachment hole160 (FIG. 8) that is aligned with a corresponding attachment hole161 (FIG. 9) in upperrear extension90. A threaded attachment device, such asscrew162, or the like, is received through those alignedholes160,161 to partially facilitate attachment between thesupport frame36 and thesecondary support assembly142.

Likewise, and as best understood with reference to FIG. 7, the secondarylower extension150 includes a generally radially extendingpart164 and alongitudinally extending part166.Radially extending part164 of the secondarylower extension150 defines a forward lower attachment hole168 (FIG. 8) that is aligned with a corresponding attachment hole169 (FIG. 9) in lowerrear extension92. A threaded attachment device, such asscrew170, or the like, is received through those alignedholes168,169 to partially facilitate attachment between thesupport frame36 and thesecondary support assembly142.

As best seen in FIG. 8, the secondaryupper extension148 includes a pair of laterally extending and spaced apartright flanges172, as well as laterally extending and spaced apart leftflanges174. Likewise, the secondarylower extension150 includes laterally extending and spaced apartright flanges176, as well as laterally extending and spaced apart leftflanges178.

In the embodiment of FIG. 7, each of theports94 of thesecondary end cap146, some of which are accessed by removingcovers100, respectively receive portions of fiber optic cables (see, for example, FIGS.1 and6). Each of the pairs offlanges172,174,176,178 (also see FIG. 8) receives a respective strain-relief bracket (for example see the strain-relief bracket114 of FIGS. 1 and 6) that cooperates with a respective fiber optic cable in the manner described above for the first embodiment. Buffer tubes (for example see thebuffer tubes34 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6) extend from the fiber optic cables extending through theports94 of thesecondary end cap146. Excess portions of the buffer tubes are stored in the slack baskets120 (FIG,1) carried on opposite sides of thesupport frame36 of the in-line splice closure of the second embodiment. Optical fibers of the fiber optic cables extending through theports94 of thesecondary end cap146 are spliced with optical fibers of fiber optic cables extending throughports94 of theend cap38. Those splices are organized within the splice trays122 (FIG. 1) carried on opposite sides of thesupport frame36 of the in-line splice closure of the second embodiment.

Secondary support assembly142 (includingsecondary support frame144 and end cap146) could be provided (with an appropriate in-line type housing, fasteners, etc.) as a stand-alone kit. The kit would allow an operator to add thesecondary support assembly142 to supportassembly33 to change a butt-type enclosure (as in the first embodiment) to an in-line enclosure as that shown in FIG. 7 without a wholesale change in equipment and cable routing.

Third Embodiment

A butt-type splice closure of a third embodiment of the present invention is identical to the butt-type splice closure20 (FIG. 1) of the first embodiment of the present invention, except for variations noted herein. Portions of the butt-type support assembly of the butt-type splice closure of this embodiment are illustrated in FIG.9. In accordance with this embodiment, each of the pairs offlanges76,78,80,82 (also see FIG. 8) is respectively part of afurcated member180,182,184,186. Each of thefurcated members180,182,184,186 extends laterally away from thesupport frame36 and toward theframe axis54 so the pairs offlanges76,78,80,82 are optimally proximate torespective ports94 to perform their strain-relief functions.

As best understood with reference to FIG. 10, which is an isolated view of thesupport frame36, each of the upper andlower bars56,58 respectively includes laterally extending plate-like parts188,190. The plate-like parts188,190 overlap to define a mountingregion192 of thesupport member67. Also in accordance with the third embodiment, each of the upper andlower bars56,58 defines a pair of longitudinally extending apertures that overlap to define a pair of longitudinally extendingslots194 extending through thesupport member67.

Referring to FIG. 9, in accordance with the illustrated example of the third embodiment, aslack basket198 is mounted to the bottom surface of thesupport member67. Theslack basket198 includes a tray-like base206 andtabs208 extending away from the tray-like base at an acute angle to define a region for containing buffer tubes (for example seebuffer tubes34 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6) that contain optical fibers. Theslack basket198 is acceptably mounted to thesupport member67 by threaded attachment devices, such as a pair of screws (not shown), or the like, that extend through a pair of apertures defined through theslack basket198 and thread into apertures defined in the mountingregion192 of the support member.

Anorganizer assembly202 is also mounted to the top surface of thesupport member67. Theorganizer assembly202 includes a plurality of spaced apart partitions210 defining a plurality ofreceptacles212 for respectively receiving splice trays, such as the splice trays122 (FIG.1). Theorganizer assembly202 is acceptably mounted to thesupport member67 by threaded attachment devices, such as a pair ofscrews204, or the like, extending through a pair of passages defined through the organizer assembly and threaded into apertures defined in the mountingregion192 of the support member. Theslack basket198 and theorganizer assembly202 can be characterized as container-like devices for containing optical fibers. The optical fibers contained by theslack basket198 are preferably disposed within buffer tubes (for example see thebuffer tubes34 illustrated in FIGS.1 and6).

Atransition plate214 is mounted above and withorganizer assembly202.Transition plate214 advantageously facilitates the routing of optical fibers within the closure of the third embodiment. Thetransition plate214 includes anouter surface215 extending between peripheral edges oftransition plate214.Transition plate214 includes multiple protrusions protruding angularly away from theouter surface215. The protrusions define one or more apertures for receiving a tie, or the like, that holds buffer tubes34 (FIGS. 1 and 6) routed proximate to the transition plate, as will be discussed in greater detail below. The protrusions of thetransition plate214 are in the form ofarches216 and front andrear tabs218,220, or the like.Arches216 are preferably arranged along and proximate to the long side edges of thetransition plate214.Tabs218,220 respectively extend at an acute angle away from proximate to the front and rear edges oftransition plate214. Whereasarches216 define a single aperture, each of thetabs218,220 defines multiple apertures. As mentioned above, each of the apertures defined by thearches216 and thetabs218,220 are designated to receive ties or the like that holdbuffer tubes34 that are routed proximate to thetransition plate214.

As best seen in FIGS. 9 and 11, achannel plate222 is mounted below theorganizer assembly202.Channel plate222 is mounted to supportmember67 by attachment devices, such as a pair of screws224 (FIG.11), or the like, extending through apertures defined through the channel plate and threaded into apertures defined in the mountingregion192 of the support member.Channel plate222 defines alongitudinally extending channel226 positioned at the back side oforganizer assembly202.Channel226 advantageously facilitates the routing of optical fibers within the closure of the third embodiment.

More specifically,channel226 is open at its opposite ends, andchannel226 further has an elongate opening extending between its opposite ends. As best seen in FIG. 11,channel226 is partially defined by a longitudinally extending backside225 of the organizer assembly202 (FIG.9).Back side225 is opposite from the primary openings to the receptacles212 (FIG. 9) oforganizer assembly202.Channel226 is further partially defined by a base wall-like part229 of thechannel plate222. Base wall-like part229 extends in the longitudinal direction, generally perpendicular toback side225 oforganizer assembly202, and laterally away from the back side of the organizer assembly.Channel226 is further partially defined by a side wall-like part231 ofchannel plate222. Side wall-like part231 extends in the longitudinal direction, generally perpendicular to the base wall-like part229 of thechannel plate222, and away from the base wall-like part of the channel plate.

As best seen in FIG. 9, in accordance with the third embodiment, anadjustment bracket228 is mounted for movement along theslots194 extending along a rear section ofsupport member67.Adjustment bracket228 includes an upright230 extending upwardly and perpendicularly from abase232.Base232 includes multiple apertures that are respectively aligned with theslots194. At least two of the apertures through the base232 receive threaded attachment devices, such as a pair of screws (not shown), or the like. The threaded attachment devices extend through theslots194 and thread into respective apertures inbase232 to movablymount adjustment bracket228 to supportmember67.

The butt-type support assembly receives fiber optic cables (e.g.,fiber optic cables32 of FIGS. 1 and 6) throughrespective ports94 of theend cap38. Each of the pairs offlanges172,174,176,178 or selected pairs thereof, respectively receives a strain-relief bracket (e.g., strain-relief bracket114 of FIGS. 1 and 6) for cooperating with a respective fiber optic cable in the manner described above. Buffer tubes extend from the fiber optic cables extending throughports94 ofend cap38. Excess portions of the buffer tubes are stored inslack basket198. Optical fibers from the fiber optic cables extending through theports94 of theend cap38 are spliced together within splice trays that are removably held withinrespective receptacles212 oforganizer assembly202.Adjuster bracket228 is moved forward alongslots194 ofsupport member67 so upright230 of the adjuster bracket abuts the rear end of the splice trays within theorganizer assembly202. One or more straps (for example see thestrap128 illustrated in FIG. 1) are wrapped aroundorganizer assembly202 andslack basket198 and assist in the securing of the splice trays and excess portions of the buffer tubes to thesupport member36.

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates one way to route abuffer tube bundle240 or the like, which is depicted as a series of generally uniform dashed lines. Thebuffer tube bundle240 extends from a fiber optic cable (for example see thefiber optic cables32 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6) extending through the port94 (FIG. 9) closest to theleft flanges78 of the forwardupper extension60. The fiber optic cable from which thebuffer tube bundle240 extends is held by a strain-relief bracket (for example see the strain-relief bracket114 of FIGS. 1 and 6) mounted to theleft flanges78. Thebuffer tube bundle240 extends from a location proximate to theleft flanges78 and across a portion of thetransition plate214, where thebuffer tube bundle240 is connected to an arch216 by atie242, such as a conventional cable tie, or the like. Thereafter, thebuffer tube bundle240 extends through thechannel226, abuts the forward surface of the upperrear extension90, and is received into the rear end of a splice tray (for example see thesplice trays122 illustrated in FIG. 1) removably held within a respective receptacle212 (FIG. 9) of the organizer assembly202 (FIG.9).

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates another buffer tube bundle244 (for example see thebuffer tubes34 illustrated in FIGS.1 and6), or the like, as a series of two short dashes alternating with one long dash. Thebuffer tube bundle244 extends from a fiber optic cable (for example see thefiber optic cables32 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6) extending through the port94 (FIG. 9) closest to theright flanges76 of the forwardupper extension60. The fiber optic cable from which thebuffer tube bundle244 extends is held by a strain-relief bracket mounted to theright flanges76. Thebuffer tube bundle244 extends rearward from a location proximate to theright flanges76, through thechannel226, abuts the forward surface of the upperrear extension90, and is received into the rear end of a splice tray (for example see thesplice trays122 illustrated in FIG. 1) that is removably held within a respective receptacle212 (FIG. 9) of the organizer assembly202 (FIG.9).

In accordance with an alternative embodiment, thebuffer tube bundle244 originates from a fiber optic cable that extends through the port94 (FIG. 9) closest to the right flanges80 (FIG. 3) of the forward lower extension62 (FIG.9). In this alternative embodiment, the fiber optic cable from which thebuffer tube bundle244 extends is held by a strain-relief bracket mounted to theflanges80.

Support frames36 of various lengths are within the scope of the present invention. For example, thesupport frame36 illustrated in FIG. 11 is shorter than the support frame illustrated in FIG.9. It is also within the scope of the present invention for the container-like devices for containing optical fibers to be interchangeable. For example, and as best understood with reference to FIG. 9, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, theslack basket198 of the support assembly of the third embodiment is replaced with an organizer assembly, transition plate, and channel plate. The butt-type support assembly of this alternative embodiment includes twoadjuster brackets228, one on each side of thesupport member67. The twoadjuster brackets228 of this alternative embodiment are held to thesupport member67 by common screws, or the like, that extend through theslots194 and thread into apertures in thebases232 of the adjuster brackets, so that the adjuster brackets move in unison.

Fourth Embodiment

An in-line splice closure of a fourth embodiment of the present invention is identical to the in-line splice closure of the second embodiment of the present invention, except for variations noted herein and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. FIG. 12 illustrates portions of the in-line support assembly of the in-line closure of the fourth embodiment. The in-line support assembly of the fourth embodiment includes asecondary support assembly142 mounted to the butt-type support assembly33 (FIG. 9) of the third embodiment. The slack basket198 (FIG. 9) of the butt-type support assembly33 of the third embodiment is not illustrated in FIG.12. Also, the organizer assembly202 (FIG. 9) is hidden from view in FIG.12.

As best seen in FIG. 13, in accordance with the fourth embodiment, thesecondary support frame144 is constructed so each of the pairs offlanges172,174,176,178 is respectively part of afurcated member250,252,254,256. Each of thefurcated members250,252,254,256 extends laterally away from thesecondary support frame144 and toward theframe axis54 so the pairs offlanges172,174,176,178 are optimally proximate to respective ports94 (FIG. 9) of thesecondary end cap146.

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a buffer tube bundle260 (for example see thebuffer tubes34 illustrated in FIGS.1 and6), or the like, as a series of generally uniform dashed lines, in accordance with one example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 also schematically illustrates anotherbuffer tube bundle262, or the like, as a series of two short dashes alternating with one long dash, in accordance with one example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Eachbuffer tube bundle260,262 extends from a respective fiber optic cable (for example see thefiber optic cables32 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6) extending through a respective port94 (FIG. 9) of thesecondary end cap146. Each of those fiber optic cables is secured by a respective strain-relief bracket (for example see the strain-relief bracket114 of FIGS. 1 and 6) mounted to a respective pair of flanges selected from theflanges172,174,176,178 (also see FIG.13). The buffer tube bundles260,262 extend together through a series ofties242, such as a conventional cable ties, or the like. Two of theties242 are connected torespective arches216 of thetransition plate214, and the other of theties242 is connected to thefront tab218 of the transition plate. Thereafter, the buffer tube bundles260,262 extend through thechannel226, abut the forward surface of the upperrear extension90, and are received into the rear ends of splice trays (for example see thesplice trays122 illustrated in FIG. 1) removably held within respective receptacles212 (FIG. 9) of the organizer assembly202 (FIG.9).

Fifth Embodiment

A butt-type splice closure of a fifth embodiment of the present invention is identical to the butt-type splice closure of the third embodiment of the present invention, except for variations noted herein and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Portions of the butt-type support assembly of the butt-type splice closure of the fifth embodiment are illustrated in FIG.14. Although not shown in FIG. 14, in accordance with one example of the fifth embodiment, a slack basket (for example see theslack basket198 illustrated in FIG. 9) is mounted to the bottom surface of the mountingregion192 of thesupport frame32. In accordance with another example of the fifth embodiment, the combination of an organizer assembly, transition plate, and channel plate is mounted to the bottom surface of the mountingregion192 of thesupport frame32. In accordance with the latter example, the butt-type support assembly of the fifth embodiment includes twoorganizer assemblies202 mounted on opposite sides of the mountingregion192, twochannel plates222 mounted on opposite sides of the mounting region, and twotransition plates214 mounted on opposite sides of the mounting region.

As best understood with reference to FIG. 14, each of the pairs offlanges76,78,80,82 is respectively part of upper andlower brackets270,272. The upper andlower brackets270,272 are identical, except that they are oppositely oriented from one another. Theupper bracket270 is removably mounted to the forwardupper extension60 by a pair ofstuds274 that extend through respective apertures defined through the forwardupper extension60 and receive nuts (not shown), or the like. Theupper bracket270 defines anaperture271 for receiving a screw, or the like, so a strain-relief bracket (for example see the strain-relief bracket114 of FIGS. 1 and 6) can be mounted to theupper bracket270 via theaperture271. Likewise, thelower bracket272 is removably mounted to the forwardlower extension62 by a pair of studs (not shown) that extend through respective apertures (not shown) defined through the forwardlower extension62 and receive nuts (not shown), or the like. Thelower bracket272 defines anaperture273 for receiving a screw, or the like, so a strain-relief bracket (for example see the strain-relief bracket114 of FIGS. 1 and 6) can be mounted to thelower bracket272 via theaperture273. The pairs offlanges76,78,80,82 andapertures271,273 are positioned with respect torespective ports96 of theend cap38 for optimally holding strain-relief brackets proximate thereto.

In accordance with the fifth embodiment, theradially extending part68 of the forwardupper extension60 and theradially extending part72 of the forwardlower extension62 are arranged so buffer tubes (for example see thebuffer tubes34 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6) extending from fiber optic cables (for example see thefiber optic cables32 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6) extending through the central column ofports96 defined through theend cap38 need not be bent excessively as they extend past theradially extending parts68,72. More specifically, in accordance with the fifth embodiment, theradially extending parts68,72 of thesupport frame36 define and extend generally in a common plane that is generally parallel to theframe axis54. In contrast, in accordance with the first through fourth embodiments (FIGS.1-13), theradially extending parts68,72 of thesupport frame36 extend generally in a common plane that is generally perpendicular to theframe axis54.

Sixth Embodiment

An in-line splice closure of a sixth embodiment of the present invention is identical to the in-line splice closure of the fourth embodiment of the present invention, except for variations noted herein and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. FIG. 15 illustrates portions of the in-line support assembly of the in-line closure of the sixth embodiment. The in-line support assembly of the sixth embodiment includes asecondary support assembly142 mounted to the butt-type support assembly of the fifth embodiment (see FIG.14).

In accordance with the sixth embodiment, each of the pairs offlanges172,174,176,178 (also see FIG. 8) of thesecondary support frame144 is respectively part of upper andlower brackets280,282. The upper andlower brackets280,282 are identical to the upper andlower brackets270,272. The upper andlower brackets280,282 are associated with and function with respect to thesecondary end cap146 and thesecondary support frame144 in the same general manner as the upper andlower brackets270,272 are associated with and function with respect to theend cap38 and thesupport frame36.

Advantageously, the present invention provides splice closure structures that enhance the capability for optimally carrying and providing access to large numbers of fiber optic cables, optical fibers, and optical fiber splices.

Whereas components of the present invention can be placed in many different orientations, components are at times described herein as being in a particular orientation for purposes of explanation, and not for purposes of limitation.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims (9)

That which is claimed is:

1. A converting assembly capable of creating an in-line closure from a first end cap and a first support frame of a butt-type closure, the converting assembly comprising:

a second support frame having opposite front and rear ends, wherein the front end of the second support frame is capable of being connected to the a rear end of the first support frame;

a second end cap capable of being connected to the rear end of the second support frame; and

an elongate housing having opposite front and rear ends, wherein the housing defines an internal cavity, a front opening to the internal cavity at the front end of the housing, and a rear opening to the internal cavity at the rear end of the housing, and wherein the front and rear openings are capable of being contemporaneously respectively occluded by the first and second end caps while the first end cap is connected to a front end of the first support frame, the second end cap is connected to the rear end of the second support frame, and the front end of the second support frame is connected to the rear end of the first support frame so that the first and second support frames are within the internal cavity of the housing to provide an enclosed configuration.

2. A converting assembly according toclaim 1, wherein the second support frame defines a generally U-like shape.

3. A converting assembly according toclaim 1, wherein:

the housing defines a housing axis extending between the front and rear ends of the housing; and

the second support frame defines a frame axis extending between the front and rear ends of the second support frame, and the frame axis is generally parallel to the housing axis in the enclosed configuration.

4. A converting assembly according toclaim 3, wherein the second support frame comprises:

a generally radially extending part extending generally radially outward from the frame axis and having opposite ends positioned generally on opposite sides of the frame axis, and

first and second extensions, wherein the first extension is connected to the radially extending part proximate one end the radially extending part and the second extension is connected to the radially extending part proximate the other end of the radially extending part, and wherein each of the first and second extensions extend generally in the longitudinal direction and are positioned between the radially extending part and the second end cap while the second end cap is connected to the rear end of the second support frame.

5. A closure according toclaim 4, wherein the second end cap is generally cylindrical and comprises a circumferential surface, and the first and second extensions are mounted to the end cap proximate the circumferential surface.

6. A converting assembly according toclaim 4, further comprising an attachment mechanism operative for mounting the radially extending part to the rear end of the first support frame.

7. A method of creating an in-line closure, the method comprising:

providing a first support frame and a first end cap, wherein the first support frame has opposite front and rear ends, and the first end cap is capable of being connected to the front end of the first support frame, wherein the first support frame and the first end cap are operative for cooperating with a first housing defining an internal cavity and having a closed rear end and an opposite front end defining a front opening to the internal cavity, and wherein the first end cap is capable of occluding the front opening to define a first enclosed configuration while the first end cap is connected to the front end of the first support frame and the first support frame is within the internal cavity;

connecting a front end of a second support frame to the rear end of the first support frame;

connecting a second end cap to a rear end of the second support frame;

providing a second housing having opposite front and rear ends, and defining:

an internal cavity,

a front opening to the internal cavity of the second housing, wherein the front opening of the second housing is positioned at the front end of the second housing, and,

a rear opening to the internal cavity of the second housing, wherein the rear opening of the second housing is positioned at the rear end of the second housing; and

contemporaneously occluding the front and rear openings of the second housing respectively with the first and second end caps while the first end cap is connected to the front end of the first support frame, the front end of the second support frame is connected to the rear end of the first support frame, and the second end cap is connected to the rear end of the second support frame so the first and second support frames are within the internal cavity of the second housing.

8. The method according toclaim 7, further comprising providing the first housing and removing the first end cap and the first support frame respectively from the front opening and the internal cavity of the first housing prior to connecting of the second support frame to the first support frame.

9. The method according toclaim 7, wherein the step of connecting the front end of the second support frame to the rear end of the first support frame comprises aligning an aperture defined in the front end of the second support frame with an aperture defined in the rear end of the first support frame and extending an attachment device through the aligned apertures.

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